Students and tutors create new icon for Lichfield Cathedral

Students of The Bethlehem Icon Centre, their principal, Ian Knowles, and School of Traditional Arts tutor, Hanna Ward, are in the process of creating the last of a series of three icons at Lichfield Cathedral.

The icon will measure 3 metres x 2.55 metres and takes its inspiration from the shape of the St. Chad cross; the only adaptation being the lengthening and broadening of the central panels. The cross will depict the dying and rising of Jesus (the paschal mystery), with two faces.

The careful painting, gilding and lettering will take ten weeks and it is hoped that they will be able to consecrate the icon on the 14 September, the feast of the exaltation of the Holy Cross.

Visitors to the Cathedral can watch the skilled students applying their craft on this unique project. Click the following link for more information: www.lichfield-cathedral.org/icon